Figuring out which dash cam is right for your car can feel like a maze, but when it comes to the Rexing M2-4, you’re looking at a serious contender if all-around coverage is your top priority. This isn’t just another dash cam. it’s a four-camera system packed into a sleek mirror that watches your front, rear, and both sides, giving you a full 360-degree view around your vehicle. It’s designed to offer comprehensive protection and peace of mind, whether you’re cruising down the highway, navigating tight parking spots, or just parked up overnight.
The Rexing M2-4 is truly a standout in the mirror dash cam category, especially with its unique four-channel recording capability. It upgrades your rearview mirror to a smart display, providing continuous recording from all angles. This level of coverage is pretty impressive and a must for folks who want extra security on every journey. Its robust feature set, including GPS, parking mode, and night vision, positions it as a strong option for anyone looking for extensive vehicle protection. While no device is perfect, the M2-4 certainly delivers on its promise of broad surveillance, making it a worthy investment for drivers prioritizing safety and evidence capture.
The Rexing M2-4: Your 360-Degree Eye on the Road
So, what exactly are we talking about here? The Rexing M2-4 is a 4-channel mirror dash cam that essentially replaces or clips over your existing rearview mirror. But don’t let the “mirror” part fool you. this thing is a fully-fledged recording powerhouse. It’s built for those who want to capture everything happening around their vehicle, not just what’s in front or behind.
Rexing has been making waves in the dash cam space for a while now, and the M2-4 is their first dash cam to feature dedicated side camera technology. This means you’re getting video feeds from the front, rear, and two waterproof side cameras that mount on the outside of your car, giving you a truly comprehensive perspective. Think of it like having eyes on every corner of your vehicle, all recording simultaneously. This kind of coverage is incredibly valuable, especially in busy traffic, for rideshare drivers, or just for added security against unexpected incidents.
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Unpacking the Features: What Makes the M2-4 Tick?
Let’s break down what you actually get with the Rexing M2-4. This dash cam comes loaded with features designed to keep you informed and protected.
Four Cameras, Total Coverage 1080p All Around
This is where the M2-4 really shines. Unlike many dash cams that offer two or three channels, this bad boy records from four separate perspectives: front, rear, left, and right. All four cameras capture footage in Full HD 1080p resolution. Unlocking Your Rexing V2 Pro: The Ultimate User Manual & Setup Guide
Now, some folks might wonder, “Why not 4K for all cameras?” While 4K is fantastic for the main front camera, having four 1080p streams simultaneously ensures that all angles are covered without overloading the system or generating massive file sizes that are harder to manage. For side and rear views, 1080p is generally more than adequate for capturing important details like license plates and identifying vehicles during the day. Plus, it means the unit doesn’t get excessively hot during constant operation, which is a nice bonus.
The 12-inch IPS Touch Screen: More Than Just a Mirror
The M2-4 features a generously sized 12-inch IPS touchscreen display that clips right over your existing rearview mirror. This isn’t just a tiny screen. it’s a full-fledged digital mirror that can show you live feeds from any of the four cameras. You can easily swipe left or right on the screen to switch between different views front, rear, side, or even all at once in some configurations.
The touchscreen is generally responsive and intuitive, making it easy to access settings, playback recordings, or switch camera views on the fly. For people with older cars that lack modern backup cameras, this mirror dash cam simplifies parking and reversing by giving you an enhanced view of what’s behind you. However, some users of similar Rexing mirror dash cams have noted that the reflective quality of the screen when off might feel a bit darker than a traditional mirror, especially at night or if you have tinted windows. It’s something to consider, as you might find yourself switching between the live view and the reflective mirror depending on the lighting conditions.
Built-in GPS: Know Your Whereabouts
The Rexing M2-4 includes integrated GPS tracking. This isn’t just a fancy extra. it’s a crucial feature for any dash cam. The GPS logger embeds precise location, speed, and time data directly into your video recordings. In the unfortunate event of an incident, this information can be invaluable for proving your innocence, especially to insurance companies or in legal disputes. Knowing exactly where you were and how fast you were going can make a huge difference.
Supercapacitor for Reliability
One detail that often goes unnoticed but is super important for dash cams is the power source. The M2-4 is equipped with a supercapacitor instead of a traditional lithium-ion battery. Why does this matter? Supercapacitors are much more durable and reliable in extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, which is exactly what your car experiences. They also have a longer lifespan than batteries. This means your dash cam is less likely to fail or have issues related to battery degradation, especially if your car sits in the sun a lot. Rexing M3: Your Guide to Total Road Protection
24/7 Parking Surveillance and G-Sensor
Nobody wants to come back to their car to find a dent or a scratch with no idea who did it. That’s why the M2-4 comes with a 24-hour parking mode and a built-in G-sensor. The G-sensor detects sudden movements or impacts while your car is parked. If it senses a bump or a collision, it automatically triggers recording, capturing potential incidents like vandalism or hit-and-runs.
For this feature to work continuously, you’ll need to hardwire the dash cam to your car’s power, which a Type C SHWK Smart Hardwire Kit is often included with the M2-4, or available separately. This ensures the camera has a constant power supply without draining your car’s main battery. If you pull the power, the supercapacitor ensures videos are saved properly.
Night Vision Capabilities
Driving at night, especially on dimly lit roads, presents its own challenges for video clarity. The Rexing M2-4 includes Night Vision technology to help capture clearer footage in low-light conditions. While full HD 1080p across all channels provides a good baseline, actual night performance can vary. Some users of other M2 models like the M2 2K have noted that while decent, night vision clarity could still be improved, particularly for fine details like license plates. However, for overall situational awareness at night, it definitely adds a layer of protection.
Loop Recording and Storage
Like most modern dash cams, the M2-4 features loop recording. This means when your memory card fills up, the dash cam automatically overwrites the oldest, unlocked recordings. This ensures you always have the most recent footage available without manually clearing your card. The G-sensor’s “locked” files are protected from being overwritten, ensuring critical incident footage is saved.
The camera supports micro SD cards up to 256GB, and Rexing recommends using a Class 10 / UHS-I or higher speed rating high-endurance memory card specifically designed for dash cam use. This is a crucial tip: a regular consumer-grade SD card might not withstand the constant write cycles of a dash cam, leading to recording failures and corrupted files. Mastering Your Rexing V1-4K: The Ultimate User Manual Guide
Getting It Set Up: Installation Insights for the Rexing M2-4
Installing a 4-channel dash cam might sound a bit daunting, but the Rexing M2-4 is designed to be as straightforward as possible. Still, a multi-camera setup requires a bit more effort than a simple front-facing unit. Rexing even has tutorial videos to guide you through the process.
Mounting the Mirror Unit
The main mirror unit simply straps over your existing rearview mirror using rubber mounts. This makes for a clean, integrated look that doesn’t obstruct your windshield view like traditional dash cams. You’ll want to adjust the angle of the integrated front camera to get your desired view.
Wiring the Cameras Rear and Side
This is probably the most involved part. The M2-4 includes a rear camera and two side cameras.
- Rear Camera: This can often be mounted inside your rear window or, for a clearer backup camera functionality, mounted above your license plate on the outside of the vehicle. If you wire it into your reverse light, it can automatically engage when you shift into reverse, displaying guidelines on the screen.
- Side Cameras: These are waterproof and designed to be mounted on the exterior of your car, typically near the side mirrors or along the body. The wiring then usually runs through the gap in your door and tucks neatly under the trim, making for a factory-like appearance. Reviewers have praised how easy these side cameras are to mount, often blending in well with black plastic trim.
You’ll connect these cameras to a central Side/Rear Camera HUB, which then connects to the main mirror unit. Routing the cables neatly can take some time, and having a trim removal tool often included is very helpful for hiding wires around the door and under trim. Decoding the Rexing R4 Dash Cam: Your Ultimate Road Trip Companion
Power and GPS Connection
The M2-4 needs a constant power supply. It typically comes with a 12V car power cable, and as mentioned, a hardwire kit SHWK is either included or highly recommended for parking mode. The GPS module is usually a separate piece that plugs into the main unit and should be secured in a spot with a clear view of the sky, often near the A-pillar, for optimal signal reception.
Memory Card: Don’t Skimp Here!
As a final installation tip, remember the memory card. The M2-4 supports up to 256GB, but it must be a high-endurance Class 10 / UHS-I or higher microSD card. Rexing emphasizes using their recommended cards because standard cards just can’t handle the continuous writing and rewriting demanded by a dash cam. If you use a faulty or incompatible card, you might run into issues like recording failures or corrupted files.
On the Road: Performance and Real-World Use
So, you’ve got it all hooked up. What’s it like to actually use the Rexing M2-4?
Video Quality: Day vs. Night 1080p Across All Channels
During the day, the 1080p resolution across all four channels provides clear and detailed footage. You’ll generally be able to read license plates and identify vehicles with ease, especially from the front and side cameras. The 170° wide-angle lenses ensure you capture a broad view of the road and surroundings. Rexing L4 Dash Cam: Your All-Around Road Guardian
Nighttime performance is always the real test for dash cams. While the M2-4’s night vision helps, it’s important to have realistic expectations for 1080p footage. Some reviews of Rexing’s 2K models mention that while good, night clarity isn’t always perfect for picking out tiny details from a distance. However, for capturing overall events, movements, and general car shapes in low light, it’s still very effective. The crucial thing is that you have footage from all angles, which is often more important than pixel-perfect clarity in every single frame.
Touchscreen Responsiveness and User Interface
The 12-inch IPS touchscreen is a major selling point. Users generally find it very responsive and intuitive to use. Swiping through camera views, adjusting settings, and playing back videos should be a smooth experience. This makes managing your dash cam much easier than fumbling with small buttons on a tiny screen.
Mirror Functionality: Is it Still a Good Mirror?
This is a common question with mirror dash cams. When the screen is off, the M2-4 functions as a reflective mirror. Some users of the M2 series have noted that the screen, even when off, can appear slightly darker or more “tinted” than a traditional rearview mirror. This might take a little getting used to, especially if your car already has heavily tinted windows. However, the ability to switch to a live camera feed especially the rear camera can significantly improve visibility in many situations, particularly at night or when your rear window is obstructed.
Reliability and Durability
Rexing generally has a solid reputation for customer service and reliable products. The use of a supercapacitor in the M2-4 is a big plus for long-term durability, as it handles temperature fluctuations better than traditional batteries. Assuming you use a recommended, high-endurance SD card and ensure a stable power connection ideally hardwired, the M2-4 should offer consistent performance. Users have reported running the cameras constantly for extended periods without issues like overheating.
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The Good, The Bad, and The Verdict: Rexing M2-4 Pros and Cons
Like any piece of tech, the Rexing M2-4 has its strengths and a few areas where it could be improved.
Pros
- Unrivaled 360-Degree Coverage: This is the big one! Four 1080p cameras front, rear, left, right exterior mean virtually no blind spots. This is a huge advantage for accident evidence and overall security.
- Large 12-inch IPS Touchscreen: The expansive, responsive display makes viewing footage and navigating settings a breeze. It genuinely enhances the driving experience, especially for reversing.
- Supercapacitor: Better heat resistance and longer lifespan compared to battery-based dash cams, ensuring reliability in various climates.
- Integrated GPS: Crucial for recording location and speed data, which can be vital for insurance claims.
- 24/7 Parking Mode with G-Sensor: Offers round-the-clock protection against bumps, impacts, and potential vandalism when your car is parked.
- Easy Side Camera Mounting: Users report the exterior side cameras are straightforward to install and integrate cleanly into the car’s aesthetic.
- Included Hardwire Kit: Often comes with a hardwire kit, which is essential for utilizing parking mode effectively.
Cons
- 1080p Resolution Across All Channels: While sufficient for general recording, some users might prefer higher resolution like 2K or 4K for the front camera for absolute maximum detail, especially when compared to models like the M2 Max Pro.
- Mirror Reflectivity: The digital mirror can be darker than a traditional mirror when the screen is off, which might be a slight adjustment for some drivers, especially with tinted windows or at night.
- Installation Effort: While manageable, a 4-channel setup with external cameras requires more time and effort for wiring and mounting compared to simpler front-and-rear dash cams.
- No CPL Filter Option: A Circular Polarizing Lens CPL filter can reduce glare and reflections on the windshield, which is not available for the M2-4’s front camera.
- SD Card Not Always Included / Specific Requirements: While some packages may include an SD card, it’s often not the case, and you absolutely need a high-endurance Class 10/UHS-I card for reliable performance, which is an additional cost.
Rexing M2-4 vs. The Family: How It Compares to the M2 2K and M2 Max Pro
Rexing has a few “M2” models, and it’s easy to get them mixed up. Let’s quickly clarify how the M2-4 stacks up against its siblings, the Rexing M2 2K and the Rexing M2 Max Pro.
Rexing M2 2K Review
The Rexing M2 2K is a very popular dual-channel mirror dash cam, meaning it records front and rear.
- Resolution: It typically features a 2K 1440p front camera and a 1080p rear camera. This gives it a slight edge in front-facing detail over the M2-4’s 1080p front camera.
- Features: It often includes advanced driver-assist systems ADAS and blind-spot detection BSD which provide alerts for lane changes and approaching vehicles. It also has GPS, parking mode, and a large IPS touchscreen.
- Key Difference: The main distinction is the number of cameras. The M2 2K covers two angles, while the M2-4 covers four. So, if 360-degree coverage isn’t strictly necessary and a higher front camera resolution is appealing, the M2 2K is a strong option. Some users, however, noted issues with the M2 2K not simultaneously recording both front and rear cameras, which is a significant drawback for comprehensive incident capture.
Rexing M2 Max Pro Review
The Rexing M2 Max Pro is another dual-channel mirror dash cam, sitting at the top of the M2 line. Rexing Manhattan Beach: A Personal Journey to Coastal Bliss with Jonpaul Rexing’s Family
- Resolution: This model boasts a 4K 2160p front camera and a 1080p rear camera. This is the highest resolution among the M2 series for the main camera, offering superb detail during the day.
- Features: Like the M2 2K, it comes with ADAS, BSD, GPS, parking mode, and a user-friendly 12-inch touchscreen.
- Key Difference: The M2 Max Pro prioritizes extreme detail from the front camera 4K over the wider 360-degree coverage of the M2-4. If you’re primarily concerned with capturing license plates and fine details directly in front of you and behind you, and don’t need dedicated side camera views, the M2 Max Pro is a premium choice. However, some users did report issues with glare on the screen, particularly with tinted windows.
In summary:
- Rexing M2-4: Best for absolute maximum coverage 360 degrees with four 1080p cameras.
- Rexing M2 2K: Good balance of higher front resolution 2K with front and rear coverage, plus ADAS/BSD.
- Rexing M2 Max Pro: Top-tier front video quality 4K with front and rear coverage, plus ADAS/BSD, for those who prioritize detail directly ahead.
Each model caters to slightly different needs, so your choice depends on what kind of protection and features you value most.
Who Should Get the Rexing M2-4?
The Rexing M2-4 isn’t for everyone, but for a specific type of driver, it’s an excellent choice. You should consider the M2-4 if:
- You want comprehensive 360-degree coverage: If peace of mind from knowing every angle around your car is being recorded is your top priority, this is your go-to. This includes sides, which many dash cams miss.
- You drive a commercial vehicle, taxi, or rideshare: The M2-4 provides an unmatched level of documentation for professional drivers, covering potential incidents from all directions.
- You frequently drive in busy urban areas: More cameras mean more eyes on the road, helping capture those unexpected lane changes or close calls.
- You live in an area with high rates of parking incidents: The 24/7 parking mode with side camera coverage offers enhanced security against hit-and-runs or vandalism.
- You appreciate a large, integrated display: The 12-inch touchscreen as a digital rearview mirror is a modern upgrade for many vehicles.
- You own an older vehicle: This dash cam can bring advanced safety features like a digital rearview and backup camera functionality to cars that don’t have them built-in.
If you’re someone who just needs a basic front-facing camera or prioritizes 4K resolution solely for the front, then a different model might suit you better. But for extensive, all-encompassing surveillance, the M2-4 is tough to beat. Discovering Rex Riggs and the Riggs Legacy in Indiana
Maximizing Your Rexing M2-4 Experience
To truly get the most out of your Rexing M2-4, here are a few tips:
- Invest in a Quality SD Card: Seriously, this cannot be stressed enough. A high-endurance microSD card Class 10 / UHS-I or higher, up to 256GB is non-negotiable for consistent performance and avoiding corrupted files. Rexing even suggests using their own brand for better results, as some third-party cards might cause delayed touchscreen response or other issues.
- Hardwire for Parking Mode: To take full advantage of the 24/7 parking monitoring, make sure your M2-4 is hardwired to your vehicle’s power supply. This ensures continuous power without draining your car’s battery and allows the G-sensor to capture events while parked.
- Regularly Format Your SD Card: It’s a good practice to format your SD card every few weeks or months directly through the dash cam’s menu. This helps maintain its health and prevents potential recording issues.
- Keep Firmware Updated: Check Rexing’s website for the latest firmware updates. These updates can improve performance, fix bugs, and sometimes even add new features. Just be careful to use the correct firmware for your specific model.
- Clean Your Lenses: Dust, dirt, or water spots on any of the four camera lenses can degrade video quality. Give them a quick wipe regularly, especially the external side and rear cameras.
- Utilize the GPS Data: In case of an accident, the GPS data speed, location, time embedded in your footage can be incredibly useful. Make sure the GPS module is properly connected and positioned for optimal signal.
By following these simple steps, you’ll ensure your Rexing M2-4 is always ready to protect you and your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What resolution does the Rexing M2-4 record at?
The Rexing M2-4 records in Full HD 1080p resolution across all four channels: front, rear, left side, and right side cameras. Decoding Jason Rexinis: Your Guide to a Commercial Real Estate Maverick
Do I need a special SD card for the Rexing M2-4?
Yes, you do. The Rexing M2-4 requires a high-endurance micro SD card with a Class 10 / UHS-I or higher speed rating, supporting up to 256GB. It’s crucial to use a card specifically designed for dash cams to ensure reliability and prevent recording failures.
Does the Rexing M2-4 have parking mode?
Yes, the Rexing M2-4 includes a 24-hour parking mode that works with a built-in G-sensor. When enabled, it will automatically record if it detects sudden movements or impacts while your vehicle is parked, providing surveillance around the clock. For continuous parking mode, the dash cam needs to be hardwired.
How is the Rexing M2-4 powered?
The M2-4 is primarily powered via a 12V car power cable. For continuous use of features like parking mode, it is recommended to use the included Smart Hardwire Kit SHWK to connect directly to your car’s electrical system, drawing power even when the engine is off. It also uses a supercapacitor, which is more durable in extreme temperatures than traditional batteries.
Can I view the camera footage on my phone?
While the immediate search results don’t explicitly mention Wi-Fi for phone connectivity for the M2-4 specifically, other Rexing M2 models often include Wi-Fi. Assuming similar functionality, you would typically remove the memory card and view files on a computer with a card reader, or connect the camera directly to a computer via a mini-USB cable. For real-time viewing or app control, Wi-Fi is usually needed, which is a feature to confirm directly from the product manual or Rexing’s official product page.
How does the Rexing M2-4 compare to the Rexing M2 2K?
The main difference is the number of cameras and resolution. The M2-4 offers four 1080p cameras for full 360-degree coverage front, rear, and two external sides. The Rexing M2 2K typically provides two cameras front and rear, with a higher resolution 2K 1440p front camera and a 1080p rear camera. So, the M2-4 prioritizes wider coverage, while the M2 2K prioritizes higher detail for the front view. How to Charge Your Tesla with a J1772 Adapter (And Why You’ll Love It!)
What are the main benefits of a mirror dash cam like the M2-4?
Mirror dash cams like the M2-4 integrate seamlessly by clipping over your existing rearview mirror, offering a discreet look. They provide a large display that can serve as a digital rearview mirror, improving visibility, especially with a live rear camera feed, and consolidating the dash cam unit without adding clutter to your dashboard or windshield.
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